As the article says, this priest will have no long term consequences from his actions. I think it is wonderful when we can explore our humanity, in both our maleness and femaleness. We should embrace our entire selves, fully enjoying those things that make us sensual and erotic. I have learned a few things from my Hindu friends, including:
Unlike the West, the Hindu society does not have the concept of 'sexual orientation' that classifies males on the basis of who they desire. However, there is a strong, ancient concept of
third gender, which is for individuals who have strong elements of both male and female in them. According to Sanskrit texts such as the Narada-smriti, Sushruta Samhita, etc., this third sex or gender includes people who have conventionally been called homosexuals, bisexuals, transgender people and intersex people (LGBTI). Third genders are described in ancient Vedic texts as males who have a female nature—referring to homosexual men or feminine-gendered males. The gender/sexual role of third genders has for long been predominantly associated with receiving penetration from men, just like the gender/ sexual role of manhood has been to penetrate men, women or third genders. However, the Kama Sutra clearly describes third-gender men assuming both masculine and feminine identities as well as both receptive and dominant sexual roles.
It is wonderful that this parish still loves and still supports the priest, just as your church supported Ezekiel Flint in the days of his scandal.